In a significant move to simplify official protocols, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed district officers to cease the practice of presenting garlands or bouquets during his visits and has ordered an end to the tradition of police guard of honour for the Chief Minister.
Streamlining Official Etiquette
A notification issued by Vikas Kharge, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, outlined the instructions:
- No officer shall present bouquets or garlands during the CM’s visits.
- The customary police guard of honour for the Chief Minister will be discontinued.
“All District Magistrates and Police Commissioners/Superintendents of Police are instructed to adhere strictly to these orders,” the notification stated.
Fadnavis, who also holds the charge of the Home Department, emphasized that such measures are aimed at eliminating unnecessary formalities and fostering a more efficient and focused administrative approach.
Transition to Paperless Governance
In another progressive development, Fadnavis announced the state government’s adoption of an ‘e-cabinet’ system to digitize cabinet proceedings. Under this initiative, files and proposals for cabinet meetings will be processed electronically, reducing the reliance on paper.
“We have already adopted e-filing in the state, and the movement of files is done electronically. Now, even cabinet files will follow the same system,” Fadnavis said.
To ensure a smooth transition, the state will initially operate with both electronic and paper systems. “For some time, ministers will have both options. However, the paper-based system will gradually be phased out,” the Chief Minister added.
A Tribute to Manmohan Singh
The cabinet meeting also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away last week. The leaders remembered Singh’s contributions to the nation and observed a moment of silence in his memory.
A Step Toward Modern Governance
Fadnavis’s directives reflect his commitment to reducing ceremonial practices and embracing modern, technology-driven governance. The decision to adopt e-cabinet and streamline administrative protocols signals a shift towards greater efficiency and sustainability in Maharashtra’s governance model.